General Discussion
Related: Editorials & Other Articles, Issue Forums, Alliance Forums, Region ForumsAs Valentine's Day approaches...in praise of liberal men
I married a liberal man almost thirty years ago. Yeah, I'm old, and I married very, very young. We were babies in fact. At the time I married him I didn't know he was liberal, or care. All I knew was that he treated me like a person, allowing me to take the lead if I wanted to (or not.) He respected my opinions. He never claimed to have all the answers. He wasn't perfect and he knew it. But I sure wasn't either.
Although we came from very similar backgrounds and were both from republican families, he was a Democrat. He never shied away from saying that. He had his reasons, but he never tried to convince me. If I asked, he answered. If not, he figured I had my own ideas.
I do credit him with my political awakening. He's a feminist, a humanist, as flaming a liberal as you could possibly be. But he's so much more. His lack of ego is truly awe inspiring. He's the opposite of the older white male we see stereotyped and slammed so often. He exists.
And if he exists, so must many more. Feel free to add your examples.
Happy Valentine's Day!
Buzz Clik
(38,437 posts)Mine is exactly the opposite. When I married, I was a knuckledragging Republican who was about as unenlightened as a human can be. My wife turned me around in much the same way that you describe. She is a two fisted feminist, hard core liberal, and has risen to a level in her organization never attained previously by a woman. She is a shining example to all the young women she encounters. And her attitudes are infectious: I have moved past her on the liberal spectrum and an ardent advocate for those who struggle due to things beyond their control. It's been a wonderful run.
And you seem to be every bit as nice as she is.
Fantastic. A nice way to end the day.
senseandsensibility
(17,114 posts)It's funny that you've out "liberaled" her.... what woman she must be. Happy Valentine's Day to you both!
NRaleighLiberal
(60,018 posts)a similar one about each other. We met 34 years ago with no labels - just two people crazy attracted to each other (and still are). We found our politics together, learned we view the world, and people, pretty much the same. We have two liberal girls who have the same values, beliefs, and ideals.
Happy Valentine's Day indeed....
senseandsensibility
(17,114 posts)It really is a wonderful experience to grow up with your partner as equals, isn't it?
NRaleighLiberal
(60,018 posts)onestepforward
(3,691 posts)I met my husband 18 years ago and we too grew into liberals together.
He's a beautiful person full of love and wisdom. He's smart with a great sense of humor. He reminds me of my father in that he has such great inner strength combined with gentle kindness. He's my angel, well, most of the time
Happy Valentine's day to all!
Beacool
(30,250 posts)Lucky you!!
senseandsensibility
(17,114 posts)Sometimes it pays to stop and realize your blessings if you're lucky enough to have them. I feel I've earned the right to "brag" a little at my age, but I hope not to come across as a know it all. People will find their own paths to happiness, and it may not be my path.
TheOther95Percent
(1,035 posts)A heart for your wonderful man and Austen-inspired screen name. He sounds like a Colonel Brandon.
I came from a Blue Union household and Mr. TO95% is a red diaper baby. He is the best thing that ever happened to me even if he doesn't share my love of Jane Austen and Downton Abbey.
senseandsensibility
(17,114 posts)I love your screen name, too. Jane Austen was a genius, and I rediscover her again and again as I get older. Now, as saintly as my hubby was described above, he does not share this passion. But then again I am not a dedicated hockey fan, either. Thanks again for the heart. You're the first poster I've been able to thank properly.
midnight
(26,624 posts)emmadoggy
(2,142 posts)Hubby and I met young, had no real political leanings, but both came to be liberals with very similar views.
My hubby is kind, gentle, hard-working, funny, and just an all-around good guy. Everyone likes him. He spoils me rotten - does so much more around the house than I do. And no ego - same as you described your husband. I thank my stars every day to have him in my life. He's a gem.
senseandsensibility
(17,114 posts)LeftInTX
(25,526 posts)He's anti-abortion, Catholic and feels obligated for Supreme Court justices to be anti-abortion. Other than this difference, we pretty much see eye to eye on everything. He is a wonderful, kind hearted man who will do any and everything for his family. He also can't stand Rick Perry and the rest of the Texas GOP.
Sissyk
(12,665 posts)in honor of good liberal men! I'm very happy to say I am married to one that I love with all my heart.
Waiting For Everyman
(9,385 posts)He passed away 5 years ago after 25 years together, and I miss him a lot.
Thank you for posting this, to let the good guys out there know that they are appreciated.
Happy Valentine's Day to you too, and to all!
I wish for everyone as much love as I have known in my life. Yes, I've had tons of other problems, but in love I have been very lucky, and blessed -- when all is said and done, I wouldn't have it any differently, even if I could.
Sissyk
(12,665 posts)Yes, as far as love, I have been blessed also. I know he loves me just as much as I love him. It makes for a wonderful life together even when you throw in the problems of the world.
My wish for Valentine's Day shall be that all same sex couples enjoy the same marriage benefits and experiences that we get to have.
Waiting For Everyman
(9,385 posts)Having fought for veterans' benefits for many years, which my husband was entitled to but was denied, I know what that kind of fight is like. It feels (as is) desperate when one is in the midst of it. He eventually prevailed, as I hope same sex couples will too very soon.
senseandsensibility
(17,114 posts)I am so sorry for your loss. I know you find comfort in your years together, but the loss must be very painful. You seem to have a great attitude, and to really care for others. Happy Valentine's Day, Waiting for Everyman!